Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, has announced that Kenya’s revised foreign policy will be anchored in law and designed to prioritise the interests of its citizens. Speaking during a session with the Senate Standing Committee on National Security, Defence and Foreign Relations, Mudavadi said the new approach seeks to reposition Kenya’s global engagements by moving foreign policy beyond the confines of ministry corridors and making it citizen-focused.
“Our goal is to ensure international and diplomatic engagements enhance the livelihoods and welfare of every Kenyan,” said Mudavadi. “We are shifting away from the traditional, opaque style of foreign affairs to one grounded in transparency, accountability, and parliamentary oversight.”
A key feature of the revised policy, once the sessional paper is operationalised, includes the publication of treaties and agreements signed with other countries, subject to parliamentary approval. This, Mudavadi noted, will cure the secrecy often associated with Kenya’s foreign engagements and help build public trust.
The revised policy also aims to introduce fairness in the issuance of scholarships to Kenyan students studying abroad, addressing long-standing concerns over inequality and lack of transparency. “We want Kenyans to benefit from available global education opportunities in a fair and equitable manner,” he added.
Another pillar of the policy involves integrating the foreign affairs docket into the National Security Council framework. This, Mudavadi said, will improve budgetary allocation and give the ministry room to expand its reach and capacity.
Furthermore, the policy proposes reforms in diplomatic appointments. At least 70 percent of these positions will be reserved for career diplomats, while the remaining 30 percent will accommodate experienced professionals from other sectors. This move is expected to streamline future nominations and ensure a balance between professional diplomacy and political appointments.
Senator Fatuma Dullo of Isiolo County, who chairs the committee, led the discussions with the ministry. The committee had sought clarity on Kenya’s evolving foreign policy direction amid fast-changing global dynamics.
Mudavadi concluded by stressing the importance of aligning Kenya’s foreign engagements with national interests, ensuring that every diplomatic action translates into tangible benefits for its citizens.
